Nature of Mind

Different systems emphasize one of three descriptions: the primordial non-differentiated consciousness; the awakened state of mind which is also universal; or the peaceful state of mind which is at rest, in complete peace. The nature of mind can then be experienced as blue, clear, or black aspects of consciousness. Each one of these can be considered a state of the nature of the mind. But we can say further that the nature of the mind is complete emptiness. We can experience complete emptiness as non-differentiated consciousness or as translucency, or as the night sky. There is always a subtle consciousness that perceives emptiness. The subtle consciousness can be restricted by your own personal consciousness, so that you don't see it as it is, or it can be expanded completely. (Diamond Heart Book 2, pg 23)

This, then, is one concept of the nature of mind: to think of it as consciousness, as a capacity or the very nature or substance of knowing. Without it there can be no knowing, no consciousness, no perception. In the process of becoming identified with our egos, however, we separate ourselves from it, and then we never know it, we simply use it. When we relax the hold of the ego, our individuality, we can have a sense of non-differentiated consciousness in daily life. (Diamond Heart Book 2, pg 20)